Official Guide To Living In The City Of Puyallup

washington state fair

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The Washington State Fair (Puyallup Fair) is the largest event held each year in the state of Washington. For us living in the Puyallup Valley, we get to enjoy it every year. The Fair repeatedly ranks as one of the top 10 fairs in the United States. The Washington State Fair actually hosts 2 annual events: the 17 day large Fair event in September and the Spring Fair (smaller version) held 4 days every April. Not only is the Western Washington Fair one of the biggest and best in the Nation, but during the off year, they offer many events that draw visitors from others areas of the state and region.

In the beginning, over 10 decades ago, the Puyallup community joined in order to start a “Valley Fair”. The Fair offered a place to show animals of all types and enjoy some entertainment. It was also a place to show crops which thrived in the valley’s rich land. The land in Puyallup has always been very ripe for growing. The Fair attendance continued to increase every year. As of right now, the Fair attendance reaches over 1 million visitors and sits on 160 acres of fun. Their combined value (land and buildings) is estimated to be $54 million dollars. Visitors of the fair come from all over the World.

We’ve put together a guide for the Washington State Fair. It’s very long and detailed. Use the table of contents below to help you navigate the article.

The very first Puyallup Valley Fair was in the late 1900’s. The Fair was held from October 5 to October 8 on a vacant lot just west of Pioneer Park. It was started by L.A. (Lewis Alden ) Chamberlain. In 3 days, over 6,000 people visited the fair, netting a profit of $5.17. He was so excited by its success that he decided to make the Fair an annual event. The Admission price was $1 for your entire family, for all three days! At this time, It was focused mostly on agricultural and livestock. Chamberlain was the Fairs biggest promoter. The Valley Fair Association was formed in 1900.

The fair was about a 1/2 block area, surrounded by a 10-foot fence. An opening in the fence served as the main gate. It moved to its current location in 1901 and occupied 10-acres.

The fair was built up around the race track as judges prepared to call the race by ringing a school bell in the tower. Families came in long skirts, dress coats and fancy hats and brought food baskets to enjoy picnics on the lawn. The original grandstand was built in 1903.

Tacoma merchants even closed stores on Tacoma Day and much of the city came to the Puyallup Fair. In later years, the competition for attendance on Seattle and Tacoma Day’s became one of the fairs greatest advertising promotions.
Crowds would often gather to watch a bevy of beautiful bovines (Ox) parade through the grandstand at the 1908 Western Washington Fair. Horse racing in the old stadium was once the Fair’s primary draw of attendance. Log rolling was one of the grandstands biggest shows in 1910.

Scones made their debut in 1915 and even contained raisins. However, customers unfamiliar with this new food felt the raisins looked too much like dead flies. Raisins were later added only if requested. Other extremely popular attractions included trapeze performers, vaudeville acts, a full three-ring circus, and a hot air balloon that was a long time fair favorite. Crowds gasped and held their breath as aerial and high wire acts were performed on portable equipment. The 1912 Attendance was approximately 17,000.

And, back in the “concession” areas, by the early 1920’s, the Myers and Sales families had already begun creating their famous onion burgers. As you know the famous onion burgers continue to be a success even for the fair today. In 1920, a hamburger cost 10-cents.

One of the events at the Fair was Auto Polo. Cars (era 1910) would run into a rubber ball, hoping to push (bounce) their way to victory. Horse racing led the Fair activities from the very beginning. The fastest horses came from the Puyallup and Klickitat Indian tribes. Grabbing the attention of fairgoers was of prime importance in the 1920’s and was the reason for many wild and crazy stunts, like training bulls to jump cars. It is something we certainly wouldn’t do today.

Also extremely popular was the baby contests. Prizes were awarded for every imaginable category of baby, from reddest hair, to heaviest, most teeth, and of course, the prettiest baby.

Attendance in 1925 was 175,000.

In 1932, Franklin Delano Roosevelt spoke in the grandstands. Tickets were distributed to the unemployed who were feeling the effects of the Great Depression.

The fairway was added in 1932 and the included attractions were a merry-go-round, roller coaster, Ferris wheels, and numerous other rides. The early photo of the “fairway,” was taken in the 1950’s.

The Puyallup fair was among the first carnivals or fairs in the country to have a “Kiddie Land” (rides specifically for children).

Attendance in the late 1930’s reached 400,000

The Puyallup Fair’s showpiece carousel, build in 1911, still offers magic to children of all ages. Originally steam powered and featuring a Wurlitzer band organ, it has been converted to electricity and uses tapes of the original music, though the original 44 prancing horses and two carriages are still in place.

At the entrance, grandstand seats were sold along with admission in the ’30’s, with a dozen or so windows to accommodate crowds. Reserved seats were 79 cents, tax included.

The Fair was halted from 1942-1945 due to World War II. The fairgrounds were hastily turned into a relocation center for Japanese-Americans becoming a temporary shelter for over 8,000 people. It was known as Camp Harmony. In May 1942, barbed wire fences surrounded the buildings and the fairway, search lights pointed towards the grandstand and guard towers were positioned where trapeze artists once cavorted. A extremely sad part of America’s history.

What a comeback! The 1946 fair was extended for nine days and nights, and they brought back the ever popular rodeo events. “People were hungry for entertainment and we provided it,” said one director. Attendance for the 1953 fair was at 346,000.

The Education building was added in 1953. The Grandstand was enlarged in 1954 to fit more customers. The sports and wildlife building was added in 1958.

By 1970, attendance was near ½ million.

“The Fair is burning.” The 1970’s opened with a jolt that changed the face of the fair enormously. The fairgrounds’ one and only major fire occurred early on Sunday morning, June 14, 1970. Flames brightened the sky over Puyallup that fateful night. Concessions and part of the grandstand were destroyed. Some contend it was set by an arsonist while others claim faulty electricity. No one has ever found out for sure. After the fire, it was Tent City! Colorful polka-dotted tents filled the grounds of the 1970 fair; replacing those building that had burned.

In 1979, the fair passed the million visitors mark.

Snake dancers or belly dancers – these performers keep their audience entranced as part of the free acts presented by the Special Events Department. In 1975, Special Events became a new area for the fair. Three stages were set up on the grounds to handle spontaneous shows, and free acts appeared right in the middle of the crowds. The free concerts, jugglers, poetry readings, western acts, and all the other performances are still a huge part of the fair’s entertainment philosophy.

“You can do it at a trot; you can do it at a gallop; you can do it real slow so your heart won’t palpitate” was created in 1976.

Magic lights and fireworks underscore the evening enchantment of Doin’ the Puyallup. Fair Rides in the 80’s became glitzier than before and were computerized.

In 1992, the Paulhamus Arena was added (25,000 square feet), the Blue Gate was redesigned, and the Showplace stage was added. Pathways were widened, and attendance reached 1.2 million visitors.

Something areas at the fair never change. You can always find these area’s at the fair each and every year. Here is where they can be found:

One of the worst events that ever happened to the fair and Puyallup was Camp Harmony. It was also known as the Puyallup Assembly Center. It was located at the Washington State Fair (Puyallup Fair) and halted all fair activities while it was established (1942). The facility was setup to hold Japanese Americans during WWII. The population of Puyallup during this time was 7,500. The Camp nearly doubled Puyallup’s population as locals of Japanese descent from Washington to Alaska were sent to Camp Harmony. The Army was given the task by the President to evict the housing of 92,000 men, women, and children.

The “apartments” inside the camp were setup to give every individual 50 sq. ft. of space. Each had one window as well as a single electrical socket. They also had a wood stove. The facility was barb wired and the expected stay was 100 days. They would then be moved again to prison camps. Overall, it was a horrible time of injustice in American history.

In September 1946, the fair was back with its first opening since the war. Over the years, there have been Remembrance days to honor the residents who were confined at Camp Harmony.

In 2006, the fair was officially referred to as the “Western Washington Fair”. But during that year, this name was dropped and changed to match the more common usage. The name of the fairground was changed to “The Puyallup Fair and Events Center”. Finally in 2012 the fair was named the Washington State Fair. The decision to change the name to the Washington State Fair took many years. The Board of Directors of the Fair hired firms, focus groups, and conducted market research before making the name change official. The name change also allowed the fair to attract bigger names for the concerts they put on each year.

Many residents in Puyallup still call it the Puyallup Fair, however. The locals have always known it by that name. It has a certain character and charisma not to mention history that simply isn’t going to go away.

The Washington State Fair Rodeo in September welcomes all the top cowboys and cowgirls in the country to participate in the Rodeo and the Justin Boots Playoffs in September. The top athletes and stock come to compete for the largest purse in the Northwest. The top 24 competitors in each event come from around the country to put their all into winning their individual event so they move on to the National Finals Rodeo.

The Western Rodeo Parade and Cattle Drive is a fun family event that signals the beginning to the rodeo weekend at the Washington State Fairgrounds. The annual Cattle Drive starts at 10am and is a free hour long event that travels down Meridian Street in downtown. The Cattle drive is a non-motorized parade that includes equestrian drill teams, draft horse hitches, military marching bands, cowboys on horseback, and some amazing musical entertainment.

For evening Rodeo ticket holders, the Dancin’ in the Dirt parties take place following the Friday and Saturday evening rodeos. This super popular event is free to the evening ticket holders and guests. It is a fun way to let loose and dance in the dirt while listening to live performances by popular country musicians. This fun event also provides a meet and greet with the PRCA rodeo contestants.

There are seven main events at the Puyallup rodeo. Bull riding is considered the most dangerous and exciting rodeo events out of the lineup. A brave rider sits up on a 2,000lb bull and attempts to ride the massive beast for 8 seconds. Riders get disqualified if they get thrown off before 8 seconds or if they touch the bull or his equipment with his free hand.

The second event is the Bareback Riding event. In the pro rodeo circuit, this event is the most physically demanding. Much like the Bull Riding event, the rider must stay on a bucking horse for a full eight seconds. They only have a piece of leather rigging to hold onto when the horse is trying to buck them off their backs. This event provides edge of your seat action as the crowd waits in anticipation to see if the rider will stay on the full eight seconds.

Saddle Bronc Riding is an event that tests the balance, style and timing of the rider. The objective is for the rider to synchronize their spurring action with the bronc’s movements and to stay on the bucking bronco for eight seconds without touching the horse with his free hand. This event is based on the horse breaking skills of the original cowboy but has evolved into a highly stylized competition.

The Tie-down Roping event tests the rider’s quickness and accuracy with a lasso and their expertise as a horse rider. The purpose is to successfully lasso a calf running wildly around the arena. This is a timed event and the rider must catch a calf by throwing a rope around its neck, dismount from the horse and the restrain the calf. If the calf kicks free of the ties in under six seconds the rider receives “no time”.

Team roping is the only team event in the Pro Rodeo. This event is also known as heading and heeling. The team is made up of a header and a heeler and the goal is to work together to rope a steer. The header ropes the horns and the heeler ropes the heels. This event requires that the two team members to work in tandem with one another to rope the steer and when both have completed their separate tasks, the clock stops. This is another event that is based on the original technique used at ranches to capture and restrain a full-grown animal.

Barrel racing is another exciting timed event and is the only women’s event at the Puyallup Pro Rodeo. The rider and horse ride around three barrels in the shape of a cloverleaf pattern as quickly as possible. In barrel racing the fastest time wins so the rider must have very precise control over their horse when maneuvering around the barrels at such high speeds. The rider may tip the barrels or touch them but if the barrels actually get knocked over, then a five-second penalty is added to their total time. The clock stops when the rider completes the pattern.

The final event is the Steer Wrestling event. This event is considered one of the more dangerous events due to the fact that the rider has to wrestle the steer to the ground. A horse mounted rider chases a steer then jumps off the horse to attempt to wrestle the steer to the ground by twisting its horns. There are actually two people involved in this event. The steer wrestler is called the “Bulldogger” and there is another rider called a “hazer” that rides parallel to the steer to help keep the steer running in a straight line. The “bulldogger” must stop the steer and then wrestle it down to the ground until it is flat on its back and all four feet are pointed in the same direction.
The Washington State Fair Rodeo is a wild ride for people of all ages. The fair also offers deals and discounts when you buy a season pass or a family 4-pack.

The Spring Fair is relatively new compared to the overall history of the Washington State Fair. The first Spring Fair was held in April in 1990 and has grown to become one of the most successful spring events in the Pacific Northwest. Considered one of the best ways to banish the winter blues in our lovely state, this fair offers so many fun and exciting ways to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather. This fair usually happens during mid-April and runs for 4 days at the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup. Much like the hyped Fall Fair, the Spring Fair offers some delicious food, fun rides, free music and entertainment.

The Spring Fair also features fun family attractions. A fan favorite, the ever- exciting Dock Dogs, is where contestants enter their dogs in this longest distance jump contest. The dogs jump into a large portable swimming pool and the dog with the longest jump wins. The Northwest Living & Garden Exhibit located in the Sleep Train Showplex, not only features artistic garden displays for inspiration but also vendors that offer the best in nurseries, garden shops, landscapers, and clubs. There are also many events that are specifically geared towards children. Fun on the Farm is one of the most popular attractions for children at the fair. It features farm activities, agricultural displays, and adorable baby animals. The Kid Zone in the Pavilion is an entire building dedicated to fun learning activities for kids of all ages. The Kid Zone features the Kids can Cook Cooking Show, Creative Kids Exhibit, Master Gardener’s Activity Station, and FFA Agricultural Science Contest. Looking for more of an action packed event at the fair? The Motorsport Mayhem features tricked out monster trucks galore and a highly entertaining demolition derby.

One of the most unique aspects of the Spring Fair is the official Washington State Spring Fair mascot Quigley the Duck. Since his introduction in April 2014, fair goers have enjoyed the opportunity to takes pictures with the giant yellow duck and to share them on Twitter using #ItsDucky. Make sure to take your photo when you enter the fair through the Gold Gate.

The Spring Fair also offers free parking in official fair parking lots and runs from a Thursday until Sunday. You can buy tickets either at the gates or online on their website. The fair also has a lot of participation opportunities for both businesses and individuals. There are a lot of openings for vendors, sponsors, performers, and for employment.

The Washington State Fair is located at 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371. If you’re traveling from Highway 512 or 167 you’ll take the Puyallup exit and there are fair signs that guide you to the event and areas to park. The fair is surrounded by parking lots owned by the fair. It doesn’t matter which side you come in from, there will be parking available. Free parking is available on the streets (if you come early) and all the homes in the area will sell you a parking spot on their lawn for a discounted rate all day. (Google Map)

Shuttles / Buses

During the fair, Pierce Transit offers direct rides to the fairgrounds. It cost $2 this year which is a pretty good deal. It’s located just out of the way so there is less traffic and free parking if you ride the Fair Express Bus. The South Hill Mall is a great location to jump on or you can take it from Lakewood or the Tacoma Mall as well. The Express Bus runs every 30 minutes.

Over the years, the places to stay in Puyallup have grown dramatically. If you want to stay very close to the fair (in walking distance) then you’ll want to stay at one of these hotels by the fair. These include:

The ticket prices for this year’s fair, 2016, is $12.50. You can often find a few dollars off in mailings or at the local Safeway by the fair. For students and seniors the price is $9.00. The Washington State Fair is FREE for kids under 5 years of age.

One thing that many people do not know about the fairgrounds is that it is a gorgeous, affordable and convenient place to get married. Due to its prime location in Puyallup and its proximity to both Seattle and Tacoma, the fairgrounds are not only close to hotels, attractions and a lot of wedding vendors but the Fair also offers a lot of amenities to make the process of getting married easier on couples. The Washington State Fair Events Center can accommodate both larger and smaller weddings.

There are four different venues to choose from depending on the size of your wedding. The Pavilion is an indoor venue that can accommodate up to 1,000 guests. It is the largest venue on the grounds and it is located next to a picturesque water fountain and a unique antique merry-go-round. The Expo Hall is located right inside the Gold Gate on the Fairgrounds and is another large, open indoor space that accommodates up to 800 people. The Fair Farm is one of the favorites for couples who are getting married at the Washington State Fair. This gorgeous rustic barn is the perfect venue for couples looking for that elegant country affair and can accommodate up to 300 guests. As an add-on to the Fair Farm, couples can rent the Planting Patch as a lovely outdoor space for the ceremony. The smallest venue available for those more intimate weddings is the Fair View Club. This stylish indoor venue accommodates up 150 guests and has recently been remodeled. No matter what kind of wedding you are having, the fair has venues that fit all different types of couples and themes.

When couples book a venue with the Event Center, the rental includes a lot of perks for the couple. The venue will provide dining tables, standard chairs, standard pipe and drape and stage risers. There is also complimentary parking for guests along with lots of convenient parking nearby in case the complimentary lot gets full. In order to help keep your wedding running smoothly and to answer any questions that you might have, they provide an event attendant during your event. There is also a house microphone and sound system included along with up to ten hours of building use.

When looking for an elegant yet affordable wedding venue, look no further than Puyallup. The Event Center at the fairgrounds offers different venue sizes for different types of weddings. They offer everything from a rustic country themed wedding to an elegant, sophisticated affair along with excellent customer service in order to make your day run smoothly and efficiently. The fairgrounds offer gorgeous, scenic opportunities for photos and a beautiful setting to make your wedding the one to remember.

Each year the Washington State Fair brings some of the biggest acts to our small town. They perform on the big grandstand inside the fair each year. Rain or shine you can expect to the see the show. The grandstand area has a capacity of 10,000. Your concert ticket price also includes free entry into the fair.

Reserved seating for concerts can be made online. Concert tickets include Washington State Fair gate admission which is a $12.50 value at this time. Tickets are required for children who are 2 years age and older. Rates can change from year to year so make sure you verify these numbers and information on their website.

If you want to watch concerts before the fair opens, you’ll want to watch them during the Concerts in the Park held at Pioneer Park – it’s free.

Fair E–Club

By joining the exclusive Fair E-Club you will get access to exclusive presale of concert tickets, letting you buy tickets before they are on sale to the public! Many of the concerts sell out fast so by signing up early you’ll get a jump start.

We already have news on the 2015 fair. Everyone just loves a really good “local finds success’’ story. Nancy and Ann Wilson, otherwise known as “Heart”, continue to extensively tour and play to houses that are packed everywhere they go. They will return home to the Puget Sound area this September. Last Monday afternoon, it was announced that Heart was the third 2015 Concert series show to be broadcasted by the Washington State Fair. There show will be at the fair’s stage on Tuesday Sept 15. Show’s kick- off will begin at 7:30. Party Pre-Show tickets are $32.50 but do not contain Fair gate or Concert admissions. At the party before the show, includes dinner, and drinks, plus activities and special prizes with Ann and Nancy Wilson.

“Weird Al” Yankovic Sept. 14 at 7:30 pm

Not many know that “Weird Al” Yankovic as a teen was an extremely shy, accordion – player. He got his start by sending homemade tapes to the “Dr. Demento Radio Show”. That was how he got his start to become one of the largest-selling comedy performers in history selling over 12 million. He is now in his 4th career decade, having earned 3 Grammys out of 14 nominations and countless other awards and tributes. He will be in concert at the Washington Fair on Sept. 14, 2015 starting at 7:30 pm. Weird All has been visiting our local fair for several years and it’s always a great time.

Keith Urban – Sept. 19, 2015 Monday 7:30pm

One of the music fields most exhilarating live performers, 4 times Grammy winner and judge on American Idol, Keith Urban, will bring his tour to the fair. Pre-Show Party tickets cost $32.50 but do not include Concert or Fair gate admission.

Born in Whangarei, North Island, New Zealand and named ‘Keith Lionel’ Urban in 1967 Keith, his parents and brother moved to Brisbane, Queensland. They then moved to Caboolture, one hour north of Brisbane. At a young age Urban started playing instruments, including the guitar, drums, bass guitar, keyboard, ganjo (6 string banjo), piano and sitar. Keith Urban is also a judge on the television show American Idol. It can be found on our local channel 13 Fox.
His musical career switched into high gear after he moved to Nashville in 1992. His first album in America was while he was a member of “The Ranch” in 1997, followed then by ever more hits with solo albums such as:

Last at the fair in 2013, Heart will come home as members of the most recent class inducted into the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame. Their recognition in Hall of Fame announces them as the first women to front for a hard rock band. They have been an encouragement to the female musicians everywhere who were once told that rocking was only for the boys. Information on when tickets go on sale will be posted as soon as possible.

Each year is more exciting than the last. One of the main attractions of the fair is its rides. Washington State Fair rides are arguably one of the biggest perks of going to the fair. It brings out the “kid” in all of us.

Growing up in Puyallup, I remember all the great rides. As a young child it’s all that really matter to me. I couldn’t wait until 11am when the rides started to actually get turned on so I could have some real fun. We also got to the fair early so my Mother and Father could enjoy everything else the Fair offered – then it was my time. Unfortunately, my Father is no longer with me but it was one of my favorite moments with him. Being older now, I understand his frustration and will be forever grateful for his patience. He would literally wait for hours and hours in lines with me so I could get on the next ride. You just don’t appreciate it until you get older and understand it better.

The fair is an exciting time of year! We have listed some of the most popular rides so you can prepare yourself for all the fun you’re about to have. Let’s get started with all the Washington State Fair rides.

Merry-Go-Round
The Merry-Go-Round ride is the oldest ride at the fair. It’s been operating at the fair since 1923! If you’re a senior (62+), you can actually ride the Merry-Go-Round for FREE. This ride is a timeless antique so if you want a smooth ride give it a shot.

Classic White Wooden Roller Coaster
The wooden roller coaster has been one of the biggest attractions forever at the fair. In fact, people all over the nation come to ride the iconic ride. It’s been with the fair since 1935. The roller coaster has completed a 5 year renovation which will make sure the ride will continue operating the next 100 years. It’s one of 20 wooden roller coasters across the nation. This 55-foot ride is an amazing and popular ride.

Extreme Scream
Not for the faint of heart this ride will make grown men cry. You can see it from the freeway. It’s tall and will take you 20 stories in the air in a matter of seconds. As you stomach nearly leaves your body, you’ll hit nearly 3G’s.

Rainer Rush
This is the Washington State Fair’s newest roller coaster. It was started in 2013. If you’re ready to take on this ride, you’ll experience a 60 foot drop, prompt curves going 50 mph, while you hang on for the ride of your life. Not for the faint of heart but if you want to feel +5.8 gravity force, then take this ride head on and be ready to scream.

There are so many options to choose from when it comes to the food at the fair. Each year it continues to grow. We talk a lot about the fair food on Puyallup.com. My personal favorite is the scones and the corn dogs. The scones continue to be the best deal at the Fair each one is $1.50. If you buy a dozen, you also get a discount. Taffy is hard to find but still a great deal. You can get a bar of taffy for a $1 in a variety of flavors. Last year it was only .50 cents so it did go up this year (2016). As you can imagine most the fair food is expensive (it’s a fair!). I haven’t tried the deep fried exotic items yet but I have heard they are great. These include butter, snickers, and other food items. Pete’s BBQ is a pretty good deal as well. You can get a meal for about $8 dollars and while that may seem expensive if you compare the other options, you’ll agree. This year I saw big turkey legs and corn on the cob which looked delicious and worth trying. The best place to buy a can a soda is in the vending machines. They cost $1.50 as compared to $5 at booth so keep that in mind.

Growing up in downtown Puyallup and visiting the fair growing up has been a great experience. It’s one of the highlights of Puyallup and certainly its biggest attraction. The fairs history and legacy will forever be connected to the City of Puyallup. The shows, food, and activities are worth the trip. The fair has connected families made many kids hearts melt in excitement. Hope you enjoyed reading about the Washington State Fair and see you next year!

It’s coming are you ready? It’s German beer and fare time! Oktoberfest Northwest celebrates its 11th year with Washington’s Largest Munich-inspired Festhalle Biergarten, authentic entertainment, traditional German foods and beer, and fun games for all ages. I know I love the chicken dance and singing into the late night.

** Be safe don’t drink and drive. There will be a Taxi stand at the Fair’s Blue Gate during the event. They can meet you there and get you home safe. I’m sure the Puyallup Police Department will be standing by so don’t take the risk.
King Cab: (253) 474-8294
Ace Taxi: (253) 589-1000

How is the food?
At the event you can expect lots of grub to chow on. Of course you’ll see lots of brats and beer as well as pretzels, schnitzel, and strudel. There are other varieties of food including dumplings, cabbage, and sandwiches. Don’t forget all the desserts. For wine there will be Riesling, Melange Red, and Pinot Gris provided by the Waterbrook Winery. The Washington State Fair Oktoberfest 2015 beers will include Trumer Pils, Warsteiner, Hofbrau, Hacker Pschorr Weisse, Snoqualmie Harvest Moon Fest Bier, and Warsteiner Dunkel.

Entertainment on site
It’s a big beer festival! There is dancing, singing, and bands. Engage and interact will all you other Puyallup neighbors who come to the event – it’s just fun. They have a main stage indoor and an outdoor stage as well. Don’t forget the Oktoberfest Swing Girl who is swing over your head during the event. The host and host headliner is Manuela Horn. She was there last year as well with great success. It that wasn’t enough you can watch the Wiener Dog Races where they dress up in their cute outfits (on Sunday only). There is a Hammerschlagen competition (who can pound the nails in the fastest?) as well as the obviously open ceremony and other games.

This Friday the 11th, the Washington State Fair will start again for another year. Each year is more exciting than the last. One of the main attractions of the Puyallup Fair is its rides. Washington State Fair rides are arguably one of the biggest perks of going to the Fair. It brings out the “kid” in all of us. Every year they have all kinds of kid activities as well so it really is all ages. In fact, if your kid is under 5, the Fair is free!

Growing up in Puyallup, I remember all the great rides. As a young child it’s all that really matter to me. I couldn’t wait until 11am when the rides started to actually get turned on so I could have some real fun. We also got to the Fair early so my Mother and Father could enjoy everything else the Fair offered – then it was my time. Unfortunately, my Father is no longer with me but it was one of my favorite moments with him. Being older now, I understand his frustration and will be forever grateful for his patience. He would literally wait for hours and hours in lines with me so I could get on the next ride. You just don’t appreciate it until you get older and understand it better.

The Fair is an exciting time of year! We have listed some of the most popular rides so you can prepare yourself for all the fun you’re about to have. Lets get started with all the Washington State Fair rides.

Merry-Go-Round
The Merry-Go-Round ride is the oldest ride at the Fair. It’s been operating at the Fair since 1923! If you’re a senior (62+), you can actually ride the Merry-Go-Round for FREE. This ride is a timeless antique so if you want a smooth ride give it a shot.

Classic White Wooden Roller Coaster
The wooden roller coaster has been one of the biggest attractions forever at the Fair. In fact, people all over the nation come to ride the iconic ride. It’s been with the Fair since 1935. The roller coaster has completed a 5 year renovation which will make sure the ride will continue operating the next 100 years. It’s one of 20 wooden roller coasters across the nation. This 55-foot ride is an amazing and popular ride.

Extreme Scream
Not for the faint of heart this ride will make grown men cry. You can see it from the freeway. It’s tall and will take you 20 stories in the air in a matter of seconds. As you stomach nearly leaves your body, you’ll hit nearly 3G’s.

Rainer Rush
This is the Washington State Fair’s newest roller coaster. It was started in 2013. If you’re ready to take on this ride, you’ll experience a 60 foot drop, prompt curves going 50 mph, while you hang on for the ride of your life. Not for the faint of hear but if you want to feel +5.8 gravity force, then take this ride head on and be ready to scream.

Sept. 5-21, One of the biggest fairs in the World lights up Washington state for 17 days each September with star-studded entertainment, the Rodeo Playoffs, rides, animals, delicious food, feature exhibits, activities for the children and much more. The Washington State Fair – Do The Puyallup is the largest fair in the state as well as in the Pacific Northwest. Since 1900 it has been a staple in American pastime while offering contemporary features to explore and enjoy. The Washington State Fair will be held September 5-21, 2014.

Sept. 5-21, One of the biggest fairs in the World lights up Washington state for 17 days each September with star-studded entertainment, the Rodeo Playoffs, rides, animals, delicious food, feature exhibits, activities for the children and much more. The Washington State Fair – Do The Puyallup is the largest fair in the state as well as in the Pacific Northwest. Since 1900 it has been a staple in American pastime while offering contemporary features to explore and enjoy. The Washington State Fair will be held September 5-21, 2014.

Sept. 5-21, One of the biggest fairs in the World lights up Washington state for 17 days each September with star-studded entertainment, the Rodeo Playoffs, rides, animals, delicious food, feature exhibits, activities for the children and much more. The Washington State Fair – Do The Puyallup is the largest fair in the state as well as in the Pacific Northwest. Since 1900 it has been a staple in American pastime while offering contemporary features to explore and enjoy. The Washington State Fair will be held September 5-21, 2014.

It’s that time of the year again! The Spring Fair is only a few days away! Pretty soon the Puyallup Valley will have the aroma of mixed fair foods that will draw you through the gates and take you on a fun-filled Spring Fair experience. Learn more about Puyallup if you’re new to the area. What will your first food stop be? An elephant ear, cotton candy, scones, or krusty pup? Spending time with family, friends, and loved ones at the fair is a fantastic way to make memories. There is truly something for all ages to enjoy! Read on to find out what events, rides, food, and activities will be at the fair! There is so much to do, and so little time, we hope you squeeze in everything you want to see and do to maximize your fun! The Spring Fair is running from April 20th-23rd, so make sure you don’t miss it!

For the best deals on ticket prices, get them before April 20th! Speaking of deals, the Fair does a great job of giving special deals on rides, food, and other activities. Click here to find great deals and save some money! Spring Fair gate admission is FREE for active, retired and reserve military and National Guard and their dependents, plus disabled veterans with a valid military ID all day on Friday, April 21, 2017. Show ID at gate turnstile.

Attractions

The Spring Fair is hosting a variety of attractions this year. Check out the Farm Animals at Fun on the Farm or be dazzled at the Spring Fair Laser show. The attractions offer a wide variety of entertainment, and you are sure to find one that will entertain your specific tastes. Click here to explore all the different attractions and make it to the one that you are most excited for!

Motorsport Mayhem

It’s Motorsport Mayhem all weekend long at the Washington State Spring Fair. Tricked out monster trucks and smashing cars collide for an action-packed event you won’t want to miss! Check out the different events Motorsport Mayhem will be hosting! These include the Monster Truck Show, Slamfest Demolition Derby, Monster Truck Rides, and Motorsport Mayhem Pit Parties! If you are ready to see a little mud on some tires, this is the event for you!

Animals

One of my favorite parts of the fair is seeing all the different animals! It’s so fun to see so many different kinds of animals in one place. Come check out all the different furry and friendly animals at the fair! The llamas, miniature horses, and pigs never disappoint! What is your favorite animal to visit at the fair? It’s great to learn about agricultural animals and talk with those who take care of them! There is a lot to be learned!

Free Music and Entertainment

The Spring Fair hosts some terrific free music and entertainment events! From Celtic musicians, magicians, and trick shows, you will sure to be amazed by the talent at these events! For a full list of free music and entertainment, click here.

Kids Fun

There is plenty to keep your kids entertained and having fun at the fair! Check out the different events. Face painting, a STEM showcase, and racing pigs are just a few of the events that your kids are sure to love! You don’t have to break the bank for a fun day out with the family, many of the kids fun activities are free.

Food

BBQ, hearty brats, roasted corn, onion burgers or farm-fresh salads, ice cream, crepes, funnel cake, caramels apples, fudge, cotton candy…are you hungry yet? The smell of fair food is one that brings back nostalgic memories and keeps us coming back for more every year.

Shoppers Unite at the Spring Fair to check out over 300 different vendors all in one convenient location! If you want to shop efficiently, the fairgrounds offer great deals and items to pick from!

Social Media

If you’re a social media lover, check out all the documentation from the 2016 Spring Fair here. It’s sure to get you excited for the fair this year! Check out some of these artsy Instagram pictures that fair goers captured.

You don’t want to miss the Spring Fair! Remember, get your tickets before the 19th for discounted prices! People are drawn to the fair for many different reasons, and whatever yours is, we hope that it is a fun-filled time! The countdown to the fair is on! See you there!

The Fair brings in well-known entertainers every year. However, locals know that some of the best traditions and shows take place outside the Puyallup Fair grandstand. Check out activities and events you can see for free!

One can spy the Extreme Scream (pictured left) from across the Puyallup valley and down Meridian. This tall and towering ride is a staple of the Washington State Fair. From daring teenagers to reserved kiddos, there is an adventure awaiting fair attendees.

The Midway Ride section has over 70 rides. These might be too intense for the little ones but perfect for teenagers and older. When you make it to the top of these rides, you’ll catch some great views of the fair. You might want to save some of these views for after sunset!

The WA State fair includes some intense rides; these are not for the faint of heart or stomach. Adventure Zone features the Sling Shot, walk on water, zorb, Go-Karts, Euro Bungee, and Paintball.

My Favorite Rides

The Old Roller Coaster

Recently restored, this historic roller coaster is great fair fun. This roller coaster doesn’t have loops, so if you enjoy the speed and a classic ride, this fits the bill.

The Extreme Scream

There is nothing like sitting in a chair with your feet dangling knowing you are about to shoot up into the air. With high anticipation before take off, this ride has entertainment value as a bystander. The giggles that occur after each trip ends assures those next in line that it’s worth it.

The Swings

The Swings gives the rider a freeing feeling of floating through the air. It lights up at night and adds to the ambiance of the state fair. It is a moderately paced right where you’ll find yourself smiling as you move through the air.

The Ring of Fire

I would avoid this ride if you have a sensitive stomach or have just finished eating fair food. If you enjoy rides with loops that thrill, you will certainly enjoy this classic ride.

The Giant Slide

This ride is fun for all ages! Enjoyed by young, or just the young at heart. Grab a mat and make your way down the giant yellow slide.

Egg Scrambler

If you enjoy rides that twist and jolt, this is the one for you. We wish you luck walking in a straight line after this ride; you might feel a little twisted up. That doesn’t stop some from getting right back in line.

Pricing and Tickets

Whether you go to the fair for the rides, or just want to go on a few, several ticket and pricing options are available. Adult price is $12.50 and children under 5 get free admission.

The Washington State Fair does have a lot of activities for the kids. Also, if you child is under 5 – they get info the fair for free!

Discover the Dinosaurs

Discover the Dinosaurs is a walk-through exhibit designed to bring you back in time to a landscape where dinosaurs lived. See a variety of different dinosaurs and be amazed these creatures once roamed the earth!

Admission: $6 per person Kids under 2 are free (with a paid adult)

Planting Patch

See the pumpkins, corn, squash and more at the Planting Patch located near SillyVille and the Fair Farm. The fair can teach your kids about agriculture! They will enjoy learning about what comes from the earth and how we grow the food we eat!

SillyVille

Your kids will love SillyVille. Ride the train, pay a visit to the Food Court and Soda Shoppe featuring kids value menu items (sized just right for small appetites), rides, free face painting, and more!

A demonstration of small-scale farming and gardening in small spaces. Locally-made farm and garden products are on display. After learning about farming and gardening, your kids can view a larger farming veggie and fruit display.

Tractor Tracks

Kids will jump at the chance to test their driving skills on a pedal tractor. When driving the test track, they will go through a farm and over a river! This activity is Free with Fair admission (also a very cute picture opportunity).

Friday Fireworks Spectacular

A Fireworks show is held every Friday night at 10 pm at the fair. Even though it is a late event, your kids are sure to be dazzled by the sky lighting up. It’s a great way to wrap up a fun day at the fair.

AG- Ventureland

An interactive activity where youngins can learn about the aspects of country life like saddling a horse, roping a steer, milking a cow and other various hands-on activities.

Every year the Washington State Fair hosts a variety of musicians that entertain visitors who fill the grandstands. From country to rock, the fair hosts a great lineup of musicians. Artists like Smash Mouth, Tim McGraw, Jimmy Buffet, Kid Rock, and a few others have already made their stop at the fair. Take a listen to some of the videos below to get an idea of what artists are up next!

The Washington State Rodeo will take place from September 9th-11th. We welcome the best cowboys and cowgirls from the region to participate in a variety of events and festivities.

A parade starting at 10:00am traveling down Meridian St. will mark the beginning of
the Rodeo at the Fair on Friday, September 9th. A breakfast will take place at Pioneer Park in Downtown Puyallup before the parade from 8am-10am. Events at the rodeo this year will include bull riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, and barrel racing.

The rodeo offers different pricing and package deals for attendees.

Put on your boots and get down to the fair to enjoy a show you won’t forget!

The highly anticipated Washington State Fair, known to locals as the Puyallup Fair is just around the corner. On September 2nd the gates will open and the smell of scones and krusty pups will begin to fill the Puyallup Valley. As always a variety of activities and events are happening great for a night out with friends, a weekend with the family, or an evening date.

Fair food includes classics like cotton candy, caramel apples, and corn dogs. The all-time favorite fair scone will have people waiting in line for an hour just to take home the treasure that is the scone brown bag. You will catch the smell of a cinnamon and sugar elephant ear, and will find yourself in line to get one. And don’t forget the classic earthquake burgers, a challenge to finish even for the hungry teenager.

I love the rides at the fair. From family fun rides like the giant slide to more intense rides like the roller coaster or the extreme scream, I could spend all day riding them all. If you are not a rides person, there is still plenty to keep you busy. You can always check out the animals, watch the rodeo, enjoy the produce displays, check out the different vendors selling cars, hot tubs, saunas, and an array of other products.

When driving home from the fair, I can normally hear a concert going on in the grandstands. The fair always has a great line-up of artists performing. A few of this year’s artists include Tim McGraw, Devin DeGraw, Kid Rock, and so many other talented musicians. Along with these great performers, local artists and groups perform at the fair and you can enjoy them for free!

The Washington State Fair will not disappoint. With the wide variety of things to do, you will find something you most certainly enjoy!

The best part of spring in Puyallup is the sheer volume of fun activities to do in the area. Following in the fun filled footsteps of the Daffodil Parade, The Washington State Spring Fair is gearing up for an even bigger and better fair for 2016. Filled with fun activities for the whole family, the Fair, from April 14th until April 17th, is one of the biggest attractions in the state. For over the last ten decades, the fair has delighted and entertained people of all ages and this year will be no exception. The weather forecast says it is going to warm and sunny so there is no excuse to not get down to the fair to enjoy some delicious food, fun rides, amazing musical and entertainment acts, adorable animals, and much more.

Since the very first “Valley Fair” in 1900, the city of Puyallup and the Washington State Fair has focused on welcoming families and people from all ages and backgrounds in to enjoy the fair. The Fair’s core values include education, family, fun and making memories that last a lifetime. The Washington State Fair also provides hands on experience showcasing agriculture, the arts, and the marketplace. This year has seen the opening of SillyVille and an additional four more acres of fun designed for kids and adults alike. Another exciting addition is 12 new additional delicious food booths for the fairgoer to sample and delight in. One of the best reasons to visit the fair is food! The Spring Fair also is providing fun free entertainment from leaping DockDogs, the TimberWorks Lumberjack Show and the exciting Motorsport Mayhem shows. For those looking to update their landscaping, get spring cleaning tips, or their garden game, the Fair also hosts garden workshops for all those with a green thumb.

There are also plenty of ways to save money at the Fair. On Thursday, April 14th from 2pm until 10pm all kids 18 and under will receive free Spring Fair admission with a suggested non-perishable food donation for the Puyallup Food Bank. Kids 5 and under are always free at the fair. Also for all the brave men and women who are active, retired, reserve military or National Guard, their dependents, and disabled veterans with a valid military ID will be able to get into the Fair for free all day on Friday, April 15, 2016. Show ID at gate turnstile in order to get in for free. Also if you purchase online by April 13th you can save up to 25% per ticket. Also, group tickets with the minimum order of 25 tickets or more will give you an even deeper discount. The pre- fair discount price is $7.50 for adults and $6.50 for students ages 6-18. Regular price at the gate is $10.00 for adults and $8.00 for students. Also parking is free in the official fair parking lots.

This year the Spring Fair is even bigger and better. There is something for everyone and it is way to make lasting memories with your family. For additional information regarding the fair, please use the following link, http://www.thefair.com/spring-fair and we hope to see you all there! Have a fun experience or a photo you want to share with us? Join this conversation – Tweet Us!

This weekend marks the start of the Washington Sportsmen Show in Puyallup at the Washington State Fair Events Center at the fairgrounds. This five day event is returning to the Northwest to showcase new attractions and exciting new products for men, women and children who have a passion for the outdoors. This event is the ultimate event for everyone of all ages interested in the outdoors and outdoor related activities and sports.

This outdoor showcase offers attendees great deals and values on fishing and hunting gear, clothing, camping, equipment, sport fishing boats, RV’s and much more. The top professional guides, outfitters and resort owners will be at the show to help you and your family plan the perfect outdoor adventure in the upcoming year. Northwest pro staffers will also be there to share their expertise in the big attractions that include “Yakima Bait Indoor River,” the “Cowboy Fast Draw” presented by Les Schwab, the “Tour of Northwest Big Game Animals” and the “Head & Horn” competition. The family friendly features include the “Camp Cooking Demo Tent” presented by Smokehouse Products, Camp Chef and Franz; the popular “Kid’s Free Trout Pond” presented by Baxter Auto Parts; and the Lowrance Learning Center. These events are specifically designed to teach kids about the exciting world of the outdoors.
The Washington Sportsmen Show in Puyallup is also excited to present wilderness survival and outdoor safety expert Brett Stoffel who will be at the show to share his knowledge about survival basics, signaling and equipment needs during multiple seminar theater presentations. This event is sponsored by Western Washington Toyota Dealers. If you want to meet Stoffel to ask any questions, he can be found at the Toyota display.

For the first time major Northwest retailer Bi-Mart is participating in the show with a major on-site sale of centerfire rifle, handgun and shotgun ammo. Also while supplies last, small count bricks (325-ct.) of .22’s will be available (limit two boxes per customer per transaction; purchaser must be 21 for this item). The Bi-Mart retail area will be located near the Head & Horns display, and will also feature optics and other products for sale.

One of the most popular events at the show returns again for the third year in a row. The “Cowboy Fast Draw” gives attendees the chance to experience the Old West under the supervision of Cal “Quick Cal” Eilrich, the 17-time Cowboy Fast Draw Association World Champion. This fun event focuses on safety, fun and prizes as people of all levels of experience can test out and learn in the indoor target range. The event provides Classic Colt 45 style six-guns, vintage holsters and special wax bullets.

The show has more than 150 hours of learning opportunities in multiple venues in both the fishing and hunting theaters. For fisherman the outdoor Fly Casting Pool and the Fly Tying Theater will host the best of the best in the industry. This year’s guests include fly fishing authorities Arnie Gidlow, Denny Rickards and Don Simonson, Tom Nelson (Catching Shrimp & Crab), Terry Rudnick (Washington Halibut Fishing in 2016), Mark Gavin (salmon fishing), and representatives from the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. These talented individuals will be on hand to provide the latest advice and recommendations for fishing. Hunters will also be able to have the chance to learn the latest expert advice and tips in seminars by leading hunting and fishing authority Scott Haugen (multiple presentations), Glen Berry (Elk calls), Tim Brown (choosing guides and outfitters for domestic and international hunting), Dan Kloer (bear and elk calling), Nathan Brence (family hunting), R.J. Marquart (dog training) and Sam Kolb (planning for a hunt). There is something there for all levels of hunters and fisherman.

Due the massive amount of events, speakers, and topics featured at the show, please visit http://www.thesportshows.com/shows/washington/ for additional information about events and speakers at the show. Make sure to visit that link to plan your time appropriately while visiting the show.

Show hours are 12:00 noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday (Jan. 27-29), 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. (Jan. 30) and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 31). The show offers FREE parking in the fairgrounds’ parking lots during its five-day run for your convenience. Admission is $12 for adults; juniors (6-16), $5; and children five and under are admitted free. $18 two-day passes are also available. For information and online ticket purchases and discounts, please visit www.thesportshows.com.

The Washington State Fair (Puyallup Fair) will be starting this weekend and for me personally, I love the concerts. Over the years, I would say that I have attended 6 or so concerts in the grandstands. It’s been a great time and they continue to bring big names to our small town. I remember growing up even our family went together for a few. If you’re familiar with the Fair concerts, you’ll see a few repeats each year but they are pretty good about their artist selections making sure there is always someone new. Lets go through the concert list, dates, and history of all the concerts available for the 2015 year.

Sept. 11th & 12th 2015:

To start the Fair off right on Friday and Saturday night they will have their Dancin’ in the Dirt Parties. Friday night at 9pm will feature Colt Ford. If you’re not familiar with Colt Ford, he was born in Georgia. He was professional golf player before focusing and hitting it big in his music career. He was landed on the Hot Country Charts 6 times. On Saturday night, Dan + Shay will be the artists. They are country duo team out of Nashville, Tennessee. They have been on the Hot Country Charts as well with 3 top singles in the top 40.

Sept 14th, 2015:

On Monday the Fair will feature “Weird Al” Yankovic. Over the years, Weird Al Yankovic has been a popular and returning artist over the years. He is fun show and quite popular with over 12 million albums sold. I would describe his music and concert experience as parody music, comedy, and polka. You can’t go wrong with a Weird Al show.

Sept 15th, 2015:

On Tuesday you’ll have the opportunity to experience HEART and their Love Tour. According to VH1, HEART is considered to be one of the top 100 greatest rock bands. In the US alone, they have sold over 22.5 million albums. In 2013, they were inducted to The Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. Join sisters Nancy and Ann Wilson (HEART) for this exciting show which starts at 730pm.

Sept 16th, 2015:

On Wednesday night the fair will have Fifth Harmony in the house. If you don’t know who Fifth Harmony is they are an all female group which was formed on the second season of the X Factor with Simon Cowell. It was a very inspirational season watching the group get formed. You can watch one of the segments below where they were fighting to make the cut on the show.

Sept 17th, 2015:

Thursday night the Puyallup Fair Concert Series will have the special guests Crystal Gayle & Lee Greenwood. From Kentucky, Crystal Gayle is Loretta Lynn’s younger sister. In 1977, Crystal Gayle’s single took off and catapulted her career. The single “Don’t it Make My Brown Eyes Blue” was a tremendous hit. It reached #1 on the CashBox pop charts and got her a Grammy. Lee Greenwood is a popular country artist as well. He has had over 35 singles on the Billboard country music charts. He was born in California.

Sept 18th, 2015:

Friday night at 7:30 the Fair will feature Terry Fator. In 2007 he got his big break by winning the season 2 of Americas Got Talent show. The win landed him an offer in Vegas as well as one of the highest paid comics just under Jerry Seinfeld in 2013.

Sept 19th, 2015:

Saturday is going to be a big night at the Fair. Musician Keith Urban will be on the stage. You’ve seen him on several seasons of American Idol now and his career only gets bigger and bigger. This is the Rise ‘Em Up Tour. Keith Urban is a 4-time Grammy award winner and one of the most popular country singers. With more than 15 million albums sold Keith Urban has had a long list of #1 hits.

Sept 20th, 2015:

The Fair brings to the stage Chris Tomlin & TobyMac. Chris Tomlin has a very successful career he has 12 #1 radio singles, a GRAMMY with 8 additional nominations, 3 Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, 5 gold and 2 platinum digital singles, and a platinum and 4 gold albums to his name. He has 10 albums to his name including his last one, Burning Lights, which kicked off 2013 as a No. 1 album. TobyMac has sold over 11 million albums and very popular in the Christian scene. He has 5 Grammy awards to his name.

Sept 21st, 2015:

The legendary female artist Patti Labelle takes the Fair stage on Monday the 21st. She will be joined by The Tacoma Symphony. Patti Labelle is an icon in the music industry. Some have named her the Godmother of Soul. She has sold over 50 million albums and continues to entertain all her fans across the nation. Patti Labelle was on the 20th season of Dancing with the Stars as well. Over her career, she has been on 17 music tours.

Sept 22nd, 2015:

On Tuesday the Fair will have Iggy Azalea on the main stage. At the age of 16, she left Australia to take over the music industry in America. Her #1 album “Fancy” really jumpstarted her popularity in the music industry. The concerts starts on 7:30pm and doors open at 6:30pm. The concert will also have special guests Tinashe & Elijah Blake.

Sept 23rd, 2015:

They are here finally in Puyallup. Duran Duran will hit the stage on Wednesday night. From Birmingham, England, we have heard all their great music including “Hungry Like the Wolf”, “RIO”, and “Girls on Film”. The UK band has had 14 singles in the top 10 of the UK Charts. They have sold over an amazingly 120 million albums.

Sept 24th, 2015:

Jake Owen and special guest A Thousand Horses are coming to the Fair Thursday the 24th 2015. Jake Owen always puts on a great show. Days of Gold is Jake’s most recent album.

Sept 25th, 2015:

Friday night the 25th is going to be a blockbuster in Puyallup Washington. The stage will include Kool & The Gang with special guest En Vogue. Kool & The Gang has sold over 70 million albums worldwide. My favorite song of the band is “Jungle Boogie”. The band has 7 American Music Awards, 25 Top Ten R&B hits, 9 Top Ten Pop hits, and 31 gold and platinum albums. Kool & The Gang has been preforming regularly over the last 45 years. En Vogue will be there as well included in the ticket price. They are an all girl group which started in California in 1989. They have sold over 20 million records worldwide.

Sept 26th, 2015:

The last two concert events at the Fair are expected to draw big crowds. Both artist are huge names in the industry. Jason Derulo will be on stage Saturday the 26th. This superstar has sold over 45 million albums and has amassed over 1.5 billion views. He has also been a guest judge on the show “So You Think You Can Dance”.

Sept 27th, 2015:

It’s the last night of the Fair so this finale show will be BIG! Pitbull will be hitting the stage at 7:30pm. Everyone knows Pitbull – he has sold millions of singles and regularly in Miami pumping the beats in the clubs. He is often at the New Years Eve’s celebrations so it will be great to see him closing down the Fair.

That is the schedule for all of the concerts being featured on the main stage at the Fair. It’s going to be an exciting year this year for events at the Fair. The Washington State Fair opens it’s doors this Friday the 11th. See you there!

Welcome to our Puyallup real estate guide. We’ve worked hard to cover a lot of real estate information in this guide. As you know, Puyallup is a wonderful place to live. Having lived in Puyallup for 35 years, I really wouldn’t live anywhere else. There is a mixture of residents who have moved to Puyallup due to military or just enjoy experiencing all four seasons. I have lived downtown in the Valley by the Washington State Fair as well as the South Hill area on Shaw Road. Every year both areas continue to grow and the real estate market continues to appreciate in value. I sold my home just a few years ago and actually made a profit.

In the Puyallup Valley, homes offer the charm of downtown Puyallup with better access to freeways, parks, and schools. Valley living introduces you to a tight-knit downtown community with an old history and an alluring feel. You are only a walk or short drive away from the Fair, the summer Farmers Market, or the Public Library. Almost all the city activities happen downtown. Living in the Valley offers a throwback of ‘old time’ America that will pleasantly surprise you. The average home price in the downtown Puyallup Valley area is $302,500.

The South Hill area is a much busier area. It’s growing at a faster rate than downtown as well. You have access to much more businesses really close to each other. Just about every restaurant you can think of and a variety of big name grocery stores. You’ll also find the South Hill Mall as well for any type of shopping. With that being said, the traffic can be really bad so you’ll need to learn the back roads (like Shaw Road) quickly.

The Puyallup real estate market does move pretty fast – especially the good deals. Not only is it affordable, it’s a great location between Tacoma and Seattle.

Getting Started with Real Estate

When buying or selling a home, it can be quite a nerve racking endeavor. I can personally say that because I’ve purchased several homes in Puyallup. There are a lot of questions about homeownership, benefits, and tax saving options in this article. While researching a real estate property, you’ll need to learn about the local community, schools, and hope your neighbors are not trouble makers. In short, you are making the biggest purchasing decision of your life. Here is some information below to get you started when buying a piece of real estate in the City of Puyallup, Washington.

This guide is over 5,000 words so give yourself some time to read through it. We’ve added a table of contents to help navigate the article as well.

View all of our live real estate listings. Fill out this quick form below and an agent will provide you with a tailored list per your requirements. Listings are sent directly to your inbox.

If you’re considering buying a home then you probably know there are a lot of advantages. Homeowners understand that a home builds wealth over time. They also understand that by having a home they can afford it will actually be financially beneficial especially around tax season! Below we are going to discuss those homeowner advantages.

Having a Home Builds Wealth over Time

Having a home has always been considered a point of “arrival” in ones’ professional life. Generations have accepted that having a home is as necessary as breathing or sleeping. We were taught early that homeownership is important. It gives you more freedom and provides more financial stability as we reach our retirement years. Since the real estate instability in recent years, some have stayed away from homeownership but perhaps haven’t the knowledge or resources to understand the “new market” of homeownership that has emerged today. Being able to afford your new home and not over purchasing is something that most should deeply consider. There are plenty of options out there, and with patience, your dream Puyallup home can be obtained with all the needs that you desire.

Puyallup Real Estate Market Data

As you continue to read this article, we’ll cover more data about the real estate market. In Puyallup, however, the median home price is $256,719. The city averages a cost per sq. ft. of $144. The appreciating in real estate averages 3% per year and that continues to increase. It’s not uncommon to find homes for sale with plenty of land attached as well. This was once a farmer’s town. Over the years, as more people come here, land is become harder to find with properties. Crime data is low considering areas like Tacoma. I have personally found no problems nor have I ever felt fearful living in Puyallup. My neighbors have all been friendly and helpful. The city does have photo traffic lights in some areas as well of speeding traffic lights. The Puyallup police department is active as it relates to the busy bar scenes downtown in the Valley as well as the South Hill area. 76% of the local residents are couple homeowners and 27% are single homeowners. The median household income is $64,104 annually. 30% are college educated.

Building Equity Every Month

Equity in your home is basically the amount of money you can sell your home minus the money you still owe on payments. As each month passes, you make a mortgage payment which in essence reduces the amount that you owe on the house. As the reduction continues, your equity grows. With the new Qualified Mortgage rules that have been implemented in recent past, you are more than ever protected from sketchy mortgage loans. On top of that, you will see a pattern of low payments in the beginning of your payments and small increases in payments as years go by; lowest on the first year and highest on the last. So, your equity grows as the years go by.

Tax Deduction Benefits of Real Estate Ownership

There are so many tax deductions with owning real estate. Below you’ll find some of the most popular tax benefits.

– Mortgage Deductions: Tax codes allow homeowners to deduct the mortgage interest from their tax requirements. Since the interest rates on mortgage payments can be quite high in the beginning of homeownership this deduction can be very helpful and a huge relief.

– Closing Cost Deductions: Within your first year of buying a home, you are able to claim origination fees on your loan, regardless if they are by you or the seller. These savings can be quite high as origination fees are about one percent or more.

– Property Tax. There are real estate property taxes that cover a primary residence and vacation home which are completely deductible for income tax purposes.

Making Tax Deductions on Home Equity Lines

On top of your mortgage interest, deducting the interest you pay on a home equity loan or any other line of credit is possible. That being, you are able to shift your credit card debts to your home equity loan, pay a lower interest rate rather than be obligated to pay extortionate credit interest rates. Why not lower your separate interest rates collectively? Having equity in your home is a huge advantage.

Capital Gains Exclusion

Should your new home be a primary residence for more than two years you can qualify for the Capital Gains Exclusion. Meaning, when you sell, you can keep profits up to $250,000 if you are single, $500,000 if you are married, and not owe any capital gains taxes. This might sound ridiculous that your house could be worth more, after the recent dips in house pricing. However, should you have a house purchased prior to 2003, more than likely it has increased in value and this tax benefit is most welcome and helpful.

A Mortgage Can be Considered a Savings Plan

Each payment you make on your home each month, you reduce the principle and increase your equity. Literally, you are being forced to save which is a very good thing. Saving money without a home can really be a challenge for most people. It’s easy to spend money and not save anything. Having real estate forces you to save and build equity. You’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to retire and you don’t have a mortgage payment anymore.

Renting is More Expensive than Long Term Buying

Ok, so this is always the question – Renting or Buying? In the beginning you will find that it is in fact cheaper to rent. However, over time as the interest portion of your mortgage payment decreases, the interest will be lower than the rent you would have been paying. Also, another way to look at it is the payments, though in the beginning maybe high, are going to directly buy your home and not just pay for your rent. The payments go to your home not to a landlord or someone or someplace else.

Picking a Real Estate Agent

For anyone looking to buy a home, the market is super hot right now! The real estate market is starting to heat up and get competitive and if you are looking to buy or sell, the right agent can make a difference between you finding your dream home or missing out. Building a good relationship with an agent is a key component to the buying and selling process. But what is the best way to go about building that relationship and that trust? How do you find the right agent for you and your needs? There are certain steps you can take in order to find the perfect agent to help you on this real estate journey.

The first step when hiring an agent is getting feedback and recommendations from previous clients or from friends and family. This can really help boost the trust between you and an agent. The best way to find these clients is to ask the agent to provide a list of homes that they have sold and listed in the past year with contact information for the buyers and sellers. Ask the permission of the agent to contact past clients and ask the agent if there is anyone that he or she thinks would give a positive review or a negative review. Get the agent’s reasons for why they worked well with certain clients and not well with others. When speaking with previous clients, ask them what they liked about the agent and what they didn’t. Make sure to find out what the listing price was of the home they purchased and what the sale price was after the transaction was completed. From the list of homes that have been sold and listed, you can determine the overall success rate of the agent as well.

Another crucial preliminary step when looking for an agent is to make sure to find one who understands where you are in life. A couple with a baby on the way has different needs than a single individual. For example, with a couple that has a baby on the way, it makes sense to work with an agent that maybe has children and understands what to look for when it comes to a new home and a neighborhood. Understanding a purchase timeline helps as well. Your agent should know when you’re moving to the area. Certain aspects of home can make it difficult with a newborn and the new parents won’t understand that until they have an agent that can point out potential issues. Certain layouts are designed to be more family friendly. The needs and wants for an individual can vary but working with an agent that was once in the same position will help highlight what would be the best investment choice for your money.

A background check into the agent can provide key details regarding their credentials. Look up licensing with the state board to see the license of the agent and if there are any disciplinary actions against that agent. Also looking into the credentials of the real estate agent is a good idea to see if they specialize in specific areas of real estate. Look for certain acronyms like CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative) and SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist). The CRS credential means an agent has completed additional education in residential real estate, ABR means that the agent has completed training in representing buyers in a transaction and SRES means that they have completed training that is aimed at helping buyers and sellers in the 50 and over age range. There is also a distinction between a relator who refers to themselves as a “Realtor” versus a “realtor”. If they use the term “Realtor” then that means they are member of the National Association of Realtors. Members are required to uphold certain code of ethics and standards when it comes to selling and listing homes.

There are a few crucial questions that you should be asking a potential real estate agent when trying to find one that will be the best fit for you. Two of those key questions is finding out what geographical areas and the types of properties that the agent handles. Certain neighborhoods have certain idiosyncrasies that are important for an agent to know when helping their client to navigate buying or listing a home in that area. For example, certain older cities have homes with historical value and the city might restrict certain additions or updates to that home. Moving out of a city and into the suburbs or vice versus can present their own challenges. People looking to start families have different needs and wants when it comes to a neighborhood and finding an agent that has that particular type of expertise can help you find the home of your dreams.

Another important question to ask the agent is how long they have been in business. In the real estate business, experience is everything. More experienced agents not only understand the ins and outs of the market but they have also had the time to build a valuable network within the real estate community that you could benefit from when buying or selling a home. Some agents are only part time and some are full time. The part time agents usually sell or list properties for friends and family whereas the full time agent have created a business and a career out of buying and selling homes. Make sure to check and see if they are part time or full time and decide which works better for you. Most people find that a full time agent is more motivated and has better connections that a part time agent.

When looking for a real estate agent, it is important to be as thorough as possible with your research. A home is one of the most important investments that an individual can make and the agent is the main facilitator in that transaction. There are plenty of real estate agents operating in the Puyallup area so get recommendations and ask questions to find the person that will best fit your needs.

Best Neighborhoods in Puyallup

Here are some of the most desirable Puyallup home neighborhoods below. There are a lot of great neighborhoods and I really can’t keep track of them all. New developments and communities are popping up all the time.

Rodesco is a highly coveted and family friendly neighborhood in Puyallup. There are spacious homes on large lots that feed into great schools. The average listing price of a home is $509,814. Homes located on Rodesco’s ridge have views that overlook the Orting Valley and Mt. Rainer. Rodesco is a tight knight community that promotes safety and living well.

Crystal Ridge is not far from the coveted area of Rodesco, making it another very desirable place to live with many of the same draws. Crystal Ridge is a fresh, clean, and well maintained neighborhood. It is family friendly, and offers mid ranged priced homes starting at $200,000 to luxury homes upwards of $900,000. Crystal Ridge is close to great schools, shopping, and restaurants. Additionally, its location allows easy access to both downtown and South Hill Puyallup.

Sunrise is a large development located on South Hill. It is a safe and extremely family friendly community that can offer something for all looking to find a home in Puyallup. There are many homes for sale in this area that are a steal. The development is surrounded by a stretch of paved sidewalk that is enjoyed by bikers, runners, and strollers. This area is probably growing at the highest rate. Parks are situated throughout the development and a community club house is available for use. Sunrise offers a range of homes that will suite a first time buyer budget to a dream home with a beautiful view of the valley and mountain. It is extremely close to the new Sunrise Village, which offers restaurants, yoga, local coffee shops, and other stores. Listing prices in this large community range from $180,000-$800,000. The negative is that it is pretty far from downtown Puyallup.

North Hill real estate offers spacious homes on large lots. North Hill is a great location to gain privacy, yet still have easy access to the freeway. Residing in North Hill will give you the benefit of enjoying both the amenities of downtown Puyallup and Federal way. North Hill is a quiet and beautiful area that allows the best of both worlds. If you work in Seattle and want a faster commute then this is the place to be.

Manorwood is a development located in South Hill that offers a safe, family friendly, and community feel to those who live there. Homes are in walking distance to local elementary and junior high schools as well as community parks. Manorwood is an older development in the community, and has withstood the test of time, as it is still a very desirable location for families to settle down. Home prices range from the upper $200,000’s-$600,000’s.
If I was to purchase a home today I would live in one of these areas below.

Some Facts about Homes in Puyallup

The graph below is put together with the help of the United States Census Bureau (2013). As you can see the population and homeownership in Puyallup only continues to rise in the area. People continue to learn more about this charming city and are relocating here to live.

Puyallup Ethnicity and Population Data

Relocating to Puyallup, Washington

The City of Puyallup, as noted in the graph above, only continues to rise each year with new residents. People from all over the country come to live in Puyallup due to its central location. It’s located between Tacoma and Seattle Washington which are two of the most popular cities in Washington State. Many people relocate here due to its entertainment and its location is very popular. The military base is located in Tacoma so many residents are relocated due to military requirements as well. The real estate is more affordable as compared in the surround areas. The town is growing at a very fast rate. Just about anything you need or want is located, in most cases, only a few blocks away. When it comes to shopping, entertainment, automotive repair, physicians, and others there are so many choices available plus they all are very close to everyone in the area. Very little driving is required. You’ll never be bored with everything to do in Puyallup. If you do, there is always Tacoma or Seattle.

First Time Buyers

Buying real estate for the first time can be an intimidating process. There are several steps you can take to prepare yourself to make home-buying an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

First, you should know what you want in a home purchase. How many bedrooms and bathrooms? What are you willing to sacrifice in a home and what are you not? It is helpful to set some expectations, but be aware you probably won’t get everything on your wish list. Have a game plan, but be flexible! Write these must have items down so when your agent runs a real estate listing report, it can be more specific to what you want exactly.

Second, get pre-approved for a loan right away. It is never fun to find a dream home only to learn it is outside of your budget. Be realistic about your finances and think about other costly occurrences like house fix ups and unforeseen expenses.

Third, research and find an experienced and qualified real estate agent. Each realtor has their own style, so make sure you find one that matches your personality and needs. Talk to others who have worked with them before and look at their reviews online. A great realtor makes for a better home buying experience. Plus, if you find one you like, you can use them again and recommend them to friends. Everybody wins. Different agents have different jobs. Listing agents assist in valuing and properly pricing your home, suggesting repairs and improvements, marketing your home, negotiations, and finalizing contracts. A buyers’ agent helps you find a property, help you make an offer and negotiate, and follow up with contract details. Real estate agents often specialize in different agent roles, but can server in either roles, or sometimes both under dual agency.

Lastly, take care of your new home! This might seem like a simple idea, but it is important one to remember. Regularly maintain your home and keep it in good shape. Be a proud homeowner. Someday you might want to make a return on your investment.

Buying Real Estate Tips

1. Don’t buy based on emotion. Although it is natural to picture what your life will be like in your new home, it is important to stay level-headed through the searching and buying process. Make sure to follow economical decisions and not fall in love with a kitchen ignoring other problems in a home.

2. Research the neighborhood. Maybe even go on a walk through it to see what it’s like. Is the area primarily old or young residents? Are people friendly or is there no one in sight? These are good questions to inquire about! I have found the people here to be extremely friendly and helpful.

3. Think long term and re-sale value. A house is an investment, thinking about re-sale value is important in a home purchase. You don’t want to get short changed in the end. The re-sale value in Puyallup is very strong.

4. See beyond the staging. Staging helps you view the property as a home and not just a house. Good staging can be deceiving too. Try to picture your own belongings in the home.

5. Know the Pros and Cons of buying a new versus old home. Old homes have a lot of charm, but often come with upkeep and repairs. There are a lot of older homes in Puyallup for sure and they generally have a fair amount of land with it. New homes tend to be pricier, but have fewer fixes. It is important to know how to navigate both situations. Which would you prefer?

Selling Your Home Tips

1. Price your Puyallup home to sell. You may think your home is invaluable, but people come in with budgets. Don’t make your property stale by overpricing. You can be aggressive, but don’t be unreasonable.

2. Small upgrades are most likely necessary to sell fast. You may love your bright purple bathroom, but you need a home people can envision living in. Neutrals are the safe way to go when updating your home. The kitchen is also a selling point that needs to be inviting and attractive. People are extremely visual and you only have one chance to make a good first impression.

3. Clear the clutter. Your house needs to be in showing conditions at all times. This might take a little more effort on your part to vacuum and sweep more often, but it will be worth it when the right buyer comes through the door. If you have children, make sure their toys and rooms are clean. Buyers want to see themselves in your space forever and they certainly don’t want clutter.

Commuting in the area

One of the most important decisions when purchasing a piece of real estate is your commute. How long is it going to take you to get to work in the morning?

Puyallup is connected very well and a great location for commuting. It is located 10 miles southeast of Tacoma, just a short drive or bus ride away. For individuals that work between Puyallup and Seattle the Sounder Train is an excellent way to commute. It’s clean and really reliable. Seattle traffic can be dreadful. You don’t want to be driving back home to Puyallup from Seattle. It’s a mess and it will take you hours. The traffic isn’t that bad driving to Seattle in the morning but you certainly will face some. Taking the Sounder train from Puyallup is a great alternative to sitting in the daily grind of traffic. The Sounder travels between Lakewood and Seattle, making stops in South Tacoma, Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner, Auburn, Kent, and Tukwila. You can buy a ticket for a day trip, or buy an Orca pass for ease if you use the train frequently to commute. Taking the Sounder will take a lot of time off your commute (compared to driving). Think of all the ways you can use that extra time to decorate your new home! 95% of the Puyallup residents here commute by car while 3% commute by public transportation.

The Pierce Transit system is another option to plan your commute. The Transit offers the bus, vanpool, and Para-transit. The bus has many daily routes that can take you around the South Puget Sound area at an affordable rate. The vanpool is a great way to save money and be environmentally friendly. The vanpool provides vans for groups ranging from 5-15 people for their commute within Pierce County. You can join a vanpool that already exists or start your own! The Para-transit is a shuttle service for people who are unable to ride Pierce Transit because of a disability.

So whether you are community up to Seattle, staying in Pierce County, or somewhere in between, there is a service available to get you where you need to be!

Schools in the Area

If you have children who will be enrolled in public education then you should know about the local School District. The Puyallup School District is the eighth largest district in the state of Washington. Serving a population of approximately 122,806 residents, the district is a very active part of the community. Located six miles east of Tacoma and 30 miles south of Seattle, schools are located in a suburb of nearby larger cities. In short, if you by a home anywhere in Puyallup a public school will be very close to you. The school buses pickup every couple blocks but you should investigate this while looking for a home.

The district has 21 elementary schools, seven junior high schools, three comprehensive senior high schools, and an alternative school, all of which serve more than 22,250 students. The district is one of the oldest created in the state in 1854.

The Puyallup school district takes pride in its strong arts programs, athletics, and academics. Advanced Placement courses are offered at a number of high schools, and allow high school students the opportunity to earn college credit in high school. Schools offer programs and services to students’ at all different academic and social levels. There are ample opportunities to excel and resources available for extra support.

Puyallup schools have a great reputation, and many families chose to settle down in the area because of them. Puyallup schools are a great place to foster a comprehensive and well rounded education.

A few anticipated yearly district events include:

• Annual District Elementary Track Meet
• 9th Grade Dance
• Daffodil Parade
• High School Musicals
• District wide honor band and choir
• High School Sporting Events
• Commencement
• Junior High District Wide Track Meet
• King of the Hill Football Game

In addition, I went through the Puyallup School District and have no complaints. It was a great experience for me personally growing up. It was always easy to jump on the bus in the morning from my house.

Conclusion

Puyallup is a great place to live. If you are single, a young couple, a family, looking to retire, or somewhere in-between, the Puyallup community has something to offer you. With that being said, the city is very popular when it comes to finding real estate to own. In short, the home search process can be very competitive. The Pacific Northwest is a special place to reside and more and more are figuring this out. It’s surrounded by lush greenery, Olympic Mountains, and Mt. Rainer, the beauty in this part of the country is amazing and it is no surprise that people are looking to settle down in the region. Puyallup is a safe, convenient, and affordable location to do just that. It is near events and amenities that big city life offers, at a fraction of the price. Puyallup is a great place to buy real estate. Considering all the things we discussed in this article, you can feel confident in your homes resell value. Even if you need a few months before buying, houses, condos, and apartments are on the market for rent at reasonable prices. With great schools, accessibility to larger cities, easy commuting, affordability, and a safe environment, real estate in Puyallup is most certainly worth investigating.

The (Puyallup Fair) Washington State Fair is the largest event held each year in the state of Washington. This fair repeatedly ranks as one of the top 10 fairs in the United States. The Washington State fair actually hosts 2 annual events: the 17 day each September Washington State Fair and the Spring Fair held 4 days every April.

History of the Name

In 2006, the fair was officially referred to as the “Western Washington Fair”. But during that year, this name was dropped and changed to match the more common usage. The name of the fairground was changed to “The Puyallup Fair and Events Center”. Finally in 2013 the fair was named the Washington State Fair.

100 Years

Over 10 decades ago, the Puyallup Valley community joined in order to start a “Valley Fair”. The fair offered a place to show animals of all types and it as well became a place to show crops which thrived in the valley’s rich land. Then, as now, people came from near and far to go to the Fair. The founders began the fair, yet it was the Fairgoers who made it the success it has become.

Some of the concert acts for the 2015 Washington State Fair were recently announced and once again. Reserved seating for concerts can be made online. Concert tickets include Washington State Fair gate admission which is a $12.50 value. Tickets are required for children who are 2 years age and older. Rates can change from year to year so make sure you verify these numbers and information on their website.

Fair E–Club

By joining the exclusive Fair E-Club you will get access to exclusive presale of concert tickets, letting you buy tickets before they are on sale to the public! Many of the concerts sell out fast so by signing up early you’ll get a just start.

Heart Concert 2015 fair

We already have news on the 2015 fair. Everyone just loves a really good “local finds success’’ story. Nancy and Ann Wilson, otherwise known as “Heart”, continue to extensively tour and play to houses that are packed everywhere they go. They will return home to the Puget Sound area this September. Last Monday afternoon, it was announced that Heart was the third 2015 Concert series show to be broadcasted by the Washington State Fair. There show will be at the fair’s stage on Tuesday Sept 15. Show’s kick- off will begin at 7:30. Party Pre-Show tickets are $32.50 but do not contain Fair gate or Concert admissions. At the party before the show, includes dinner, and drinks, plus activities and special prizes with Ann and Nancy Wilson.

“Weird Al” Yankovic Sept. 14 at 7:30 pm

Not many know that “Weird Al” Yankovic as a teen was an extremely shy, accordion – player. He got his start by sending homemade tapes to the “Dr. Demento Radio Show”. That was how he got his start to become one of the largest-selling comedy performers in history selling over 12 million. He is now in his 4th career decade, having earned 3 Grammys out of 14 nominations and countless other awards and tributes. He will be in concert at the Washington Fair on Sept. 14, 2015 starting at 7:30 pm. Weird All has been visiting our local fair for several years and it’s always a great time.

Keith Urban – Sept. 19, 2015 Monday 7:30pm

One of the music fields most exhilarating live performers, 4 times Grammy winner and judge on American Idol, Keith Urban, will bring his tour to the fair. Pre-Show Party tickets cost $32.50 but do not include Concert or Fair gate admission.

Born in Whangarei, North Island, New Zealand and named ‘Keith Lionel’ Urban in 1967 Keith, his parents and brother moved to Brisbane, Queensland. They then moved to Caboolture, one hour north of Brisbane. At a young age Urban started playing instruments, including the guitar, drums, bass guitar, keyboard, ganjo (6 string banjo), piano and sitar. Keith Urban is also a judge on the television show American Idol. Local channel 13 Fox.

His musical career switched into high gear after he moved to Nashville in 1992. His first album in America was while he was a member of “The Ranch” in 1997, followed then by ever more hits with solo albums such as:

Last at the fair in 2013, Heart will come home as members of the most recent class inducted into the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame. Their recognition in Hall of Fame announces them as the first women to front for a hard rock band. They have been an encouragement to the female musicians everywhere who were once told that rocking was only for the boys. Information on when tickets go on sale will be posted as soon as possible.

In 2006, the fair was officially referred to as the “Western Washington Fair”. But during that year, this name was dropped and changed to match the more common usage. The name of the fairground was changed to “The Puyallup Fair and Events Center”. Finally in 2013 the fair was named the Washington State Fair.

When buying or selling a home in puyallup for the first time it can be quite a nerve racking endeavor. There are a lot of questions about homeownership, benefits, and tax saving options. Here is some information below to get your started when buying. We do recommend reaching out to a Puyallup real estate professional. Right now is a great time to view all our listings in Puyallup.

Here we are going to give you a short run down of what having a home is all about and that having a home that you can afford will actually be financially beneficial especially around tax season!

Having a home has always been considered a point of “arrival” in ones’ professional life. Generations have accepted that having a home is as necessary as breathing or sleeping. Since the real estate instability in recent years, some have stayed away from homeownership but perhaps haven’t knowledge or resources to understand the “new market” of homeownership that has emerged. Being able to afford the home and not over purchase is something that most should deeply consider. There are plenty of options out there, and with patience, your dream Puyallup home can be obtained with all the needs that you desire.

Building Equity Every Month

Equity in your home is the basically the amount of money you can sell your home minus the money you still owe on payments. As each month passes, you make a mortgage payment which in essence reduces the amount that you owe on the house. As the reduction continues, your equity grows. With the new Qualified Mortgage rules that have been implemented in recent past, you are more than ever protected from sketchy mortgage loans. On top of that, you will see a pattern of low payments in the beginning of your payments and small increases in payments as years go by; lowest on the first year and highest on the last. So, your equity grows as the years go by.

Tax Deduction Benefits

– Mortgage Deductions: Tax codes allow homeowners to deduct the mortgage interest from their tax requirements. Since the interest rates on mortgage payments can be quite high in the beginning of homeownership this deduction can be very helpful and a huge relief.

– Closing Cost Deductions: Within your first year of buying a home, you are able to claim origination fees on your loan, regardless if they are by you or the seller. These savings can be quite high as origination fees are about one percent or more.

– Property Tax. There are real estate property taxes that cover a primary residence and vacation home which are completely deductible for income tax purposes.

Making Tax Deductions on Home Equity Lines

On top of your mortgage interest, deducting the interest you pay on a home equity loan or any other line of credit is possible. That being, you are able to shift your credit card debts to your home equity loan, pay a lower interest rate rather than be obligated to pay extortionate credit interest rates. Why not lower your separate interest rates collectively?

Capital Gains Exclusion

Should your new home be a primary residence for more than two years you can qualify for the Capital Gains Exclusion. Meaning, when you sell, you can keep profits up to $250,000 if you are single, $500,000 if you are married, and not owe any capital gains taxes. This might sound ridiculous that your house could be worth more, after the recent dips in house pricing. However, should you have a house purchased prior to 2003, more than likely it has increased in value and this tax benefit is most welcome and helpful.

A mortgage can be considered a Savings Plan

Each payment you make on your home each month, you reduce the principle and increase your equity. Literally, you are being forced to save which is a very good thing.

Renting is more expensive than long term buying

Ok, so this is always the question. Renting or Buying? In the beginning you will find that it is in fact cheaper to rent. However, over time as the interest portion of your mortgage payment decreases, the interest will be lower than the rent you would have been paying. Also, another way to look at it, is the payments, though in the beginning maybe high, are going to buy your home and not just paid for rent. The payments go to your home not to a landlord or someone or someplace else.

Looking for the best places in Puyallup to live? Here are some of the most desirable Puyallup home neighborhoods below:

Puyallup Valley homes offer the charm of downtown Puyallup with easy access to freeways, restaurants, parks, and schools. Puyallup Valley living introduces you to a tight knight downtown community with an old history and an alluring feel. You are only a walk or short drive away from the fair, the summer farmers market, or the library. Living in the valley offers a throwback of ‘old time’ America that will pleasantly surprise you. The average home price in the valley is $302,500.

Rodesco is a highly coveted and family friendly neighborhood in Puyallup. There are spacious homes on large lots that feed into great schools. The average listing price of a home is $509,814. Homes located on Rodesco’s ridge have views that overlook the Orting Valley and Mt. Rainer. Rodesco is a tight knight community that promotes safety and living well.

Crystal Ridge is not far from the coveted area of Rodesco, making it another very desirable place to live with many of the same draws. Crystal Ridge is a fresh, clean, and well maintained neighborhood. It is family friendly, and offers mid ranged priced homes starting at $200,000 to luxury homes upwards of $900,000. Crystal Ridge is close to great schools, shopping, and restaurants. Additionally, its location allows easy access to both downtown and South Hill Puyallup.

Sunrise is a large development located on South Hill. It is a safe and extremely family friendly community that can offer something for all looking to find a home in Puyallup. The development is surrounded by a stretch of paved sidewalk that is enjoyed by bikers, runners, and strollers. Parks are situated throughout the development, and a community club house is available for use. Sunrise offers a range of homes that will suite a first time buyer budget to a dream home with a beautiful view of the valley and mountain. It is extremely close to the new Sunrise Village, which offers restaurants, yoga, local coffee shops, and other stores. Listing prices in this large community range from $180,000-$800,000.

North Hill real estate offers spacious homes on large lots. North Hill is a great location to gain privacy, yet still have easy access to the freeway. Residing in North Hill will give you the benefit of enjoying both the amenities of downtown Puyallup and Federal way. North Hill is a quiet and beautiful area that allows the best of both worlds.

Manorwood is a development located in South Hill that offers a safe, family friendly, and community feel to those who live there. Homes are in walking distance to local elementary and junior high schools as well as community parks. Manorwood is an older development in the community, and has withstood the test of time, as it is still a very desirable location for families to settle down. Home prices range from the upper $200,000’s-$600,000’s.

Some facts about homes in Puyallup:
The graph below is put together with the help of the United States Census Bureau (2013). As you can see the population and homeownership in Puyallup only continues to rise in the area.

Relocating to Puyallup, Washington
The City of Puyallup, Washington as noted above only continues to rise each year with new residents. People from all over the country come to live in Puyallup due to it’s central location. It’s located between Tacoma and Seattle Washington which are two of the most popular cities in Washington State. Relocation here due to its entertainment and location is very popular. The military base is located in Tacoma so many residents are relocated due to military requirements. The town is growing at a very quick rate. Just about anything you need or want is located, in most cases, only a few blocks away. When it comes to shopping, entertainment, automotive repair, physicians, ect there are so many choices available and very close to everyone in the area. You’ll never be bored with everything to do in Puyallup.Schools in the area:

The Puyallup School District is the 8th largest in the state and serves approximately 123,000 residents. Between the 22 schools in the area, we have over 22,250 students and 3,400 staff members employed. The Puyallup School District is one of the oldest created in the state in 1854.

Clad in white T-shirts, bubblers of all ages walk, dance and play across 3.1 miles of absolute fun! Waves start every 3-5 minutes. Then, at each kilometer, participants run through foam bogs, where there is enough foam to cover you from head to toe.

Don’t miss the Grand Opening of South Hill Mall’s very first indoor fitness trail, the Puyal-LOOP! We’ll have giveaways, SHM swag, face painting, and special guests.

The Puyal-LOOP, sponsored by Pulse Heart Institute, is a quarter mile track beginning in JCP Court, continuing down the mall concourse, looping at Sears, and ending in JCP Court again. But that’s not all! Along the trail, you’ll find 8 “performance posts,” with stretches and exercises which promote strength and wellness.

This free event begins at 11 am.

Farmer’s Market

The Puyallup Farmer’s Market is a popular community event. With fresh produce, flowers, yummy bakery treats, and a plethora of different vendors, the market is a great place to spend a Saturday morning or afternoon. Support your local small business and community members. The market is a very family friendly event (bring your furry friends along too, dogs love the market!) The market is on Saturday from 9am-2pm.

Pinot’s Pallete

Paint your worries away at Pinot’s Pallete. For an evening filled with art, food, drinks, and some good friends, what more could you ask for? They have several weeknight and weekend events with different options to pick from! Reserve your spot tonight. They have a great variety of paintings to choose from for all different styles and artistic preferences!

Puyallup Public Library

Saturday, July 22, 2017

Self Defense and Safety Education for Male Teens

This workshop will help teach you about personal safety and self-defense. Attendees will receive valuable tips about reducing risks, including recognizing potentially dangerous situations, as well as evading and escaping physical confrontations. Learn basic self-defense moves and techniques. Male parents and guardians are welcome to attend with their sons.

Click here for this week’s weather forecast. Make sure to make the most of the summer sun and hit the trails or parks! Puyallup Parks are a great place to visit in the summer. Each different park offers a different vibe and atmosphere. From family-friendly, to exercise, to biking, to covered in trees, to lakes and streams, Puyallup parks have you covered. If you are looking for a challenging outdoor workout, check out the Jim Martinson Trail at Wildwood park. It’s the perfect time of year to explore the PNW! Have a great weekend everyone!

The weekend is just a few days away! It is going to be a VERY hot weekend with the temperatures reaching 90 degrees on Saturday and Sunday. Make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen, put on your hat, and dig out your sunglasses. It’s a busy weekend around the South Sound, so read on to check out what is happening! If you love food, this is a great weekend to get out and about!

WA State Fair Events

Amazing Pet Expos is based in St. Louis, Missouri, and boasts a staff of passionate animal lovers. On any given day, you’ll find us hard at work with our furry assistants — who usually aren’t quite as helpful as they think.

With a staff full of animal lovers, there is always an abundance of wet noses and wagging tails at work. This isn’t just another show to our staff; it is the realization of a dream to make a difference in communities across the country.

Our mission is to bring an annual convention to your community, inviting you and your family — including the furry, scaly, and feathered members — to explore the services available to you, participate in fantastic activities and contests, support local animal causes, and meet critters who need their forever homes. Click on the website link below to find out more!

Celebrate Bees at the Puyallup Farmers Market

In 2016, Puyallup became the second city in the state of Washington to receive an official “Bee City” designation from Bee City USA, a not-for-profit organization committed to developing and maintaining sustainable habitats for pollinators such as native bees and honeybees.

The purpose of becoming a Bee City is to support and encourage bee-friendly habitat creation and enhancement on both public and private land. As part of our Bee City status, we’ll celebrate National Pollinators Week on Saturday, June 24th at the Puyallup Farmers Market.

Come see us between 9:00 and 2:00. We’ll invite folks to put their hand in the honey jar and pull out a pollinator trivia question, with the chance to win the prize of a seed packet or a handcrafted bee pin that you can wear to show your support for these hard-working and indispensable creatures. We’ll also display pollinator-friendly plants you can add to your yard and share instructions on how to make your own mason bee house for your backyard.

For more information, call 253-864-4184.

The Puyallup Farmer’s Market is a popular community event. With fresh produce, flowers, yummy bakery treats, and a plethora of different vendors, the market is a great place to spend a Saturday morning or afternoon. Support your local small business and community members. The market is a very family friendly event (bring your furry friends along too, dogs love the market!) The market is on Saturday from 9am-2pm.

Food Truck Frenzy at Bradley Lake Park

Taste of Tacoma

If you feel up to traveling to a neighboring city, The Taste of Tacoma is a great event to attend for food and fun!Emerald Queen Casino’s Taste of Tacoma® presented by BECU is the “Ultimate Summer Get Together” featuring over 40+ restaurants & vendors, 50+ handcraft & commercial goods vendors, live music, and entertainment on 4 stages, local chefs performing live cooking demonstrations & mystery ingredient cook-offs at The Taste Cooks! stage, all-new South Sound Bites local restaurant showcase with support for the Emergency Food Network, the Rose Garden which includes The Wine Bar and the Craft Beer Tasting, beer gardens featuring local beers and craft spirits, the Family Fun Zone including an entertainment stage and rides and games from the Funtastic Carnival and more!

The weekend is just a few days away! It is going to be a VERY hot weekend with the temperatures reaching 90 degrees on Saturday and Sunday. Make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen, put on your hat, and dig out your sunglasses. It’s a busy weekend around the South Sound, so read on to check out what is happening! If you love food, this is a great weekend to get out and about!

WA State Fair Events

Amazing Pet Expos is based in St. Louis, Missouri, and boasts a staff of passionate animal lovers. On any given day, you’ll find us hard at work with our furry assistants — who usually aren’t quite as helpful as they think.

With a staff full of animal lovers, there is always an abundance of wet noses and wagging tails at work. This isn’t just another show to our staff; it is the realization of a dream to make a difference in communities across the country.

Our mission is to bring an annual convention to your community, inviting you and your family — including the furry, scaly, and feathered members — to explore the services available to you, participate in fantastic activities and contests, support local animal causes, and meet critters who need their forever homes. Click on the website link below to find out more!

Come Celebrate Bees at the Puyallup Farmers Market

In 2016, Puyallup became the second city in the state of Washington to receive an official “Bee City” designation from Bee City USA, a not-for-profit organization committed to developing and maintaining sustainable habitats for pollinators such as native bees and honeybees.

The purpose of becoming a Bee City is to support and encourage bee-friendly habitat creation and enhancement on both public and private land. As part of our Bee City status, we’ll celebrate National Pollinators Week on Saturday, June 24th at the Puyallup Farmers Market.

Come see us between 9:00 and 2:00. We’ll invite folks to put their hand in the honey jar and pull out a pollinator trivia question, with the chance to win the prize of a seed packet or a handcrafted bee pin that you can wear to show your support for these hard-working and indispensable creatures. We’ll also display pollinator-friendly plants you can add to your yard and share instructions on how to make your own mason bee house for your backyard.

For more information, call 253-864-4184.

The Puyallup Farmer’s Market is a popular community event. With fresh produce, flowers, yummy bakery treats, and a plethora of different vendors, the market is a great place to spend a Saturday morning or afternoon. Support your local small business and community members. The market is a very family friendly event (bring your furry friends along too, dogs love the market!) The market is on Saturday from 9am-2pm.

Food Truck Frenzy at Bradley Lake Park

Taste of Tacoma

If you feel up to traveling to a neighboring city, The Taste of Tacoma is a great event to attend for food and fun!Emerald Queen Casino’s Taste of Tacoma® presented by BECU is the “Ultimate Summer Get Together” featuring over 40+ restaurants & vendors, 50+ handcraft & commercial goods vendors, live music, and entertainment on 4 stages, local chefs performing live cooking demonstrations & mystery ingredient cook-offs at The Taste Cooks! stage, all-new South Sound Bites local restaurant showcase with support for the Emergency Food Network, the Rose Garden which includes The Wine Bar and the Craft Beer Tasting, beer gardens featuring local beers and craft spirits, the Family Fun Zone including an entertainment stage and rides and games from the Funtastic Carnival and more!

It’s been a bit of a cloudy week after a stretch of sun, but it looks like the warm rays will return this weekend! Click here for this weekend’s weather forecast. Today is the first day of June, and that means those long summer nights are not too far out! Take a look at what is happening in the Puyallup community this weekend.We hope you make the most of your time away from work, school, or other duties and check out these events.

A scrapbooker’s paradise! Stamp & Scrapbook Expo events cater to paper crafters of all types and experience levels. Card makers, stampers and scrapbook enthusiasts can find new products and designs from vendors. They can also swap ideas with like-minded crafters and learn new techniques during workshops.

The Dozer Day event seeks to educate children of all ages about building sustainable communities, industry opportunities, and public safety. By giving the kids a realistic and ultimate construction experience, we put the kids in the “driver’s seat” to allow them to interact with real heavy construction equipment, fire engines, ambulances and police cars; while also engaging in other fun outdoor activities, games and toys. Children also have the opportunity to meet and interact with real professionals in these industries.

Clover the Dalmatian and Rhys the Border Collie love to listen to a good book! These trained therapy dogs visit the Library on a regular basis and provide children with a no-pressure situation to practice their reading skills from 3:00-4:00 pm this Saturday!

Farmer’s Market

The Puyallup Farmer’s Market is a popular community event. With fresh produce, flowers, yummy bakery treats, and a plethora of different vendors, the market is a great place to spend a Saturday morning or afternoon. Support your local small business and community members. The market is a very family friendly event (bring your furry friends along too, dogs love the market!) The market is on Saturday from 9am-2pm.

Pinot’s Pallete

Paint your worries away at Pinot’s Pallete. For an evening filled with art, food, drinks, and some good friends, what more could you ask for? They have several weeknight and weekend events with different options to pick from! Reserve your spot tonight. They have a great variety of paintings to choose from for all different styles and artistic preferences!

Watson’s GreenHouse

TOMATO FESTIVAL June 3rd

We are all about tomatoes this Saturday! Whether you are looking for grafted, cherry, heirloom varieties or just interested in growing something new this year we have everything you need!

PRUNING JAPANESE MAPLES June 3rd 9am-10am

Join Aaron Cady, certified arborist, for this informative seminar on pruning Japanese Maples.

Make the most of the weather and get outside this weekend! Spend some time in the parks, on the local trails, or down by the river! Have a great weekend and check in with us next week to see what is happening in the community!

It’s a new week in Puyallup WA, which means new activities and events are taking place in the community. We hope you had a wonderful weekend and got to celebrate your mother and the different mother figures in your life! Take a moment to read through what you could be a part of or get involved in within the Puyallup community this week. The Washington State Fair is hosting a couple of great events his week. Happy Monday and we hope you make it a great week!

“What Rainier Has In Store”

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

May is National Volcano Awareness Month. The Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources Center has collaborated with the Pierce County Department of Emergency Management and the U.S. Geological Survey to help residents in the Valley understand the dynamics of an event on the mountain and what residents need to do to prepare. This event is taking place at the Puyallup Activity Center from 6.30-7.30pm, it is Free, and no RSVP is required.

Public Reception for South Hill Artists at City Gallery in Puyallup

On Thursday, May 18th, the city of Puyallup will host a reception for South Hill Artists, a group whose work is currently featured in the “City Gallery” at City Hall. This event will take place from 5.30pm-7pm South Hill Artists (SHA) is a non-profit organization established in 2008 to support local artists and promote arts appreciation. Its more than 80 members include painters, crafters, woodcarvers and photographers. SHA offers workshops, demonstrations, and programs which educate both established and budding artists, helping them improve their craft.

Bike to Work Day!

May is National Historic Preservation Month. There will be a variety of activities going on: -Photos of historic buildings along Meridian, from Stewart to City Hall (wear your walking shoes!) -Lists of historic structures for you to view -Children’s activities (historic era clothes to try on, drawings to color) -Self-guided walking and biking tours of historic sites Sponsored by: The Puyallup Historical Society at Meeker Mansion, Puyallup Main Street Association, Puyallup/Sumner Chamber of Commerce, and City of Puyallup Planning Department.

Puyallup Farmer’s Market

The Puyallup Farmer’s Market is a popular community event. With fresh produce, flowers, yummy bakery treats, and a plethora of different vendors, the market is a great place to spend a Saturday morning or afternoon. Support your local small business and community members. A little rain doesn’t keep people away, but make sure to grab your umbrella. The market is a very family friendly event (bring your furry friends along too, dogs love the market!) The market is on Saturday from 9am-2pm.

WA State Fair Events

The Wallup in Puyallupis back to the Blue Parking lot May 19 – 21 featuring over 1,200 pre-owned and new cars and trucks, all makes and models. All vehicles are reduced in price for this special three-day event. Free admission and free parking! Check out the inventory at ww.puyallupcars.com. Hours: Noon – 9pm on Friday, 9am – 9pm on Saturday, 10am – 7pm on SundayLocation: Blue Parking LotAdmission: FREE

The Springfree Trampoline NW Kids Fair is a family-friendly kid-focused event with entertainment, vendor booths, concessions, mascots and characters for photos and activities for the entire family. Powered by Lexus of Tacoma.

Other Activities

Paint your worries away at Pinot’s Pallete. For an evening filled with art, food, drinks, and some good friends, what more could you ask for? They have several weeknight and weekend events with different options to pick from! Reserve your spot tonight.

Click here for this week’s weather forecast. Make sure to make the most of the sun breaks and hit the trails or parks! Puyallup Parks are a great place to visit in the spring. Each different park offers a different vibe and atmosphere. From family-friendly, to exercise, to biking, to covered in trees, to lakes and streams, Puyallup parks have you covered. The weather is supposed to clear up this weekend so get out there and enjoy mother nature (but bring your rain boots/jackets just in case). The sunny summer days are not too far away!That’s all for Puyallup Events this week! We hope you make it a terrific week. Check in with us next week to see what new events are coming to town. Follow us on Twitter or Follow us on Instagram @puyallupwashington. Check in next week for what’s happening on Puyallup.com